10/16/25: David Thomas Tao
David Thomas Tao writer, reviewer, producer, and spirits expert based in New York City. A Kentucky native and Kentucky Colonel, David’s passion for drinks began in bourbon and has since expanded to all corners of the spirits world. He’s a member of The Barleycorn Society, one of the beverage world’s most prestigious tasting panels.
David covers the world of spirits, cocktails, and hospitality, with a particular (but not singular) focus on whiskey.
David’s writing has appeared in Fortune, Forbes, Slate, VinePair, Drinkhacker, and Malt Review. In 2016, he co-founded BarBend.com, which grew to…
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